Christopher and Banks Stores Closing in Bangor Mall

The Christopher and Banks and CJ Banks stores in Bangor are preparing to close.

According to Hilco Merchant Resources, the Christopher and Banks retail stores nationwide are being closed, as the company files for Chapter 11 reorganization. Hilco will be handling the sales of merchandise and fixtures. The reason given on the company's website is financial struggles due to the pandemic.

The news made me sad, as CJ Banks is my favorite store. I wear at least one piece of their clothing almost every day. So I was relieved to read that their online sales will continue. It's just the retail locations that will be closing sometime in February. The in-store sale prices will be not be honored online, so it's worth a shopping trip before they close for good. Store hours are limited, due to the pending closure, so the Christopher and Banks website recommends calling the store before visiting.

There are Christopher and Banks stores in Auburn, Kittery, and Augusta, as well as the two stores in Bangor Mall. Christopher and Banks sells misses and petite clothing, while CJ Banks specializes in plus-size apparel. More than 400 stores nationwide, will all be closing.

While I understand the reasons behind the closures, I'll miss the personal service at CJ Banks. It's unusual to find retail clerks who will knock on your fitting room door to ask if you need any different sizes. When I'd check out, they'd wrap my purchases in tissue paper before placing them in the handled shopping bag. I'll certainly continue to shop online, but I'll miss the quality shopping experience.